The Light Role CCP: A Blueprint for Far Forward Medical Support to Contemporary Operations

John Miles, C Jones

BMJ Mil Health 2020 May 17;bmjmilitary-2020-001435

November 2018 saw the deployment of a medical team with a remit to provide far forward medical support to UK, Coalition and indigenous forces. The delivery of this capability demanded a solution unique within the UK Defence Medical Services. The 'light role' casualty collection points provided emergency medical care to 475 casualties over a 4-month period. The success of the deployment was dependant on the ability to remain light and agile which brought with it logistical considerations. The clinical caseload was predominantly secondary blast injury and gunshot wound (GSW). The positioning of a Role 1 facility close to the front line of troops enabled early Damage Control Resuscitation including the delivery of blood products.

MEDEVAC to Role 2 was enabled by indigenous forces. The unique situation demanded bespoke solutions for documentation and blood warming. The lessons learnt during the deployment may form a blueprint for future contingency operations.